In a significant announcement, Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo has declared the 29th of May, 2024, as the date for the National General and Provincial Elections, marking a pivotal moment in South Africa’s democratic journey, which now spans three decades.
Addressing the media in Pretoria, Mamabolo emphasized the magnitude of the upcoming electoral event, underscoring the Election Commission’s commitment to ensuring its successful execution. “The Commission reiterates its willingness and ability to deliver this mammoth national project,” he stated. “All staff of the Commission stand ready to fulfill their tasks and ensure that the Commission meets its constitutional duties pertaining to the 2024 general elections.”
Highlighting the evolution of the electoral process, Mamabolo noted several noteworthy aspects of this year’s election. For the first time, voters will encounter a third ballot in both the National and Provincial Elections, along with the participation of independent candidates, marking a significant departure from previous elections.
To streamline candidate nomination procedures, the Commission advocates for the utilization of the online Candidate Nomination (CNS) platform. Mamabolo emphasized the convenience of this platform, which not only facilitates compliance with legal requirements but also offers users a compliance dashboard, pro-forma invoices, and a payment gateway for prescribed deposits.
Independent candidates and political parties intending to contest the general election must submit their nomination requirements by 17:00 on 08 March 2024. Following the verification of submitted documents, the Commission will issue notices of non-compliance where necessary, with affected parties given the opportunity to rectify any shortcomings.
Recognizing the importance of transparency in the electoral process, Mamabolo emphasized the publication of provisional lists of candidates, which enable citizens to make informed choices. These lists will be available for inspection on 26 and 27 March 2024, with the option for interested parties to lodge objections against prospective candidates.
Addressing the objection process, Mamabolo outlined the timeline for objections, decisions, and appeals, underscoring the Electoral Commission’s commitment to upholding fairness and integrity. Any dissatisfaction with the Commission’s decisions may be appealed to the Electoral Court, with appeals required to be lodged by 02 April 2024.
With the conclusion of the candidate nomination process, Mamabolo highlighted the commencement of the ballot paper printing project, a crucial step in preparing for the elections. Additionally, he announced that the official list of the 23,292 voting stations, including addresses and operating hours, will be available for inspection from 12 April 2024, further facilitating transparency and accessibility in the electoral process.
As South Africa prepares for the 2024 General Election, Mamabolo affirmed the Election Commission’s unwavering commitment to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections, ensuring that the voice of every citizen is heard and respected. This milestone event not only commemorates 30 years of electoral democracy but also reaffirms the nation’s ongoing journey towards a more inclusive and participatory democratic society.
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